Congress Approves $70B Immigration Enforcement Funding Through 2029
Congress approved $70 billion for immigration enforcement through fiscal year 2029.
Why it matters: The multi-year funding gives immigration agencies financial certainty and shapes enforcement policies, affecting legal compliance and corporate counsel strategies.
- $70 billion allocated through fiscal year 2029 for immigration enforcement agencies.
- $38.5 billion for ICE, $26 billion for CBP, and $5 billion for DHS designated in the bill.
- House passed the bill 214-212 on June 9, 2026, mostly along party lines.
- At least $350 million targets enforcement in sanctuary jurisdictions—areas resisting full federal cooperation.
On June 10, 2026, President Donald Trump signed the Secure America Act, approving nearly $70 billion in immigration enforcement funding through fiscal year 2029. This funding removes key agencies from typical annual budget cycles, providing predictable resources for the next several years.
The law allocates roughly $38.5 billion to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), $26 billion to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and $5 billion to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). These funds aim to strengthen border security and federal immigration enforcement nationwide.
Included is at least $350 million earmarked for operations targeting sanctuary jurisdictions, which are cities or regions that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities. This provision represents a direct federal challenge to sanctuary policies.
The House approved the bill by a narrow 214-212 vote on June 9, 2026, with the majority of Democrats opposing and Republicans supporting the measure, underscoring deep political divisions.
Congressmember Maxwell Frost criticized the bill, saying, "Instead of investing in you and ensuring you can afford your healthcare, groceries, or rent — they chose to hand $70 BILLION to agencies operating without any guardrails while terrorizing and brutalizing our communities."
His comments reflect concerns raised by human rights groups, including Human Rights Watch, which warn that increased funding with limited oversight risks exacerbating abuses by federal immigration agencies.
This legislation is significant for legal professionals tracking federal immigration policy and compliance risks. Multi-year appropriations affect enforcement strategies, agency operations, and challenges for corporate legal departments advising on immigration matters.
By the numbers:
- $70 billion — total immigration enforcement funding through 2029
- 214-212 — House vote count on June 9, 2026
- $350 million — funding aimed at sanctuary jurisdiction enforcement
Yes, but: While gaining funding certainty, the bill has faced criticism over lack of accountability and potential civil rights concerns.
What's next: Implementation and oversight of this funding will be closely watched by lawmakers, human rights groups, and legal observers.